Meet the veterinarians
About Dr. Ericka Mendez
I grew up in Brooklyn, New York and moved to Staten Island at the age of 7. I had hamsters and rabbits in Brooklyn, but when we moved into a house with a yard, I was finally able to get a dog. Soon my family had two dogs, two cats, a parrot, and of course, more rabbits. I loved taking care of the animals and felt a special connection with them. I don’t remember a time when I didn’t know I wanted to become a veterinarian—it was something I always knew I would do.
During veterinary school at Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, I volunteered for the pet loss support hotline. I’ve always been an empathetic person and wanted to use my experience to support others and gain a better understanding of the grieving process, which I knew would be important in my career.
After earning my veterinary degree, I began a career in small animal general practice with a special interest in behavior. Over the years I fell in love with Fear Free care methods, which help eliminate the fear, anxiety, and stress of veterinary visits for pets. A pet’s physical comfort and emotional wellbeing are very important to me, especially during their final moments.
In 2013, I said goodbye to my 14-year-old heart dog, Tallula. She had been with me through veterinary school, countless moves, cross country trips, rock climbing, ocean adventures, marriage, and my pregnancy. She was the best girl. I was grateful that I was able to say goodbye in our home, in her favorite spot on her comfy bed. While it was incredibly sad, it was also such a gift to give her such a peaceful end to her suffering.
Our pets give us so much and I am privileged to be able to help them have a gentle and peaceful passing surrounded by the people, places, and animals they love.
Outside of veterinary medicine, I love to spend time with my pets, husband, and daughter. I also enjoy reading, cooking, surfing, watching movies, riding bikes around town, and visiting Florida’s natural springs, theme parks, and water parks.